Inspiring Leadership Through Faith and Innovation
Paolo Maccario
President and CEO at Silfab Solar Inc.
Welcome to another episode of Anchoring Hope, where we spotlight faith-driven leaders who inspire positive change in their organizations and communities. In this episode, host David Mansilla interviews Paulo Maccario, CEO of Silfab Solar, a pioneer in renewable energy. Paulo shares his journey of leadership, faith, and resilience, reminding us of the importance of seeking God’s guidance in our lives. His story is a testament to the transformative power of faith and persistence.
A Journey Guided by Faith
Paulo Maccario’s path to becoming the CEO of Silfab Solar began in Italy, where he worked in the automotive industry for Fiat (now Stellantis). His career took him across Mexico, the US, and Canada, each step guided by his openness to God’s plans.
"One of my blessings is that I never say no to what the Lord presents to me. I jump in with both feet."
This willingness to embrace new opportunities, even in unfamiliar circumstances, has defined Paulo’s career and faith journey. His story illustrates the importance of trusting God’s plan and remaining adaptable.
Leadership Lessons from the Military and Business
Paulo’s first leadership experience was as a lieutenant in the Italian army. He candidly admits to early mistakes, such as prioritizing fear over respect. This background taught him the importance of servant leadership, a lesson reinforced by his faith.
"Leadership is not about commanding; it’s about serving. Even Jesus washed the feet of His disciples."
Transitioning into the corporate world, Paulo learned to empower his teams by removing obstacles and fostering collaboration. His journey underscores the value of humility and growth in leadership.
Navigating Challenges with Faith
Silfab Solar faced significant challenges, including a dramatic shift in its customer base. Within nine months, the company transitioned from serving 95% Canadian clients to 95% US-based clients—a monumental change requiring strategic pivots.
"We call it the ‘solar coaster.’ It’s never a straight path, but faith helps keep us grounded."
Paulo’s faith played a critical role in navigating these challenges. He shared a powerful story of hearing God’s voice during a spiritual retreat, which inspired him to reach out to a potential client who ultimately kept the company afloat.
The Balance of Faith and Family
Paulo’s personal life has been marked by triumphs and trials. He and his wife raised three children who now lead independent lives across the globe. Reflecting on his journey, Paulo emphasizes the role of faith in overcoming life’s hardships, including the loss of a child."Hard moments are often the best moments because they force us to change and grow closer to God."
His story highlights the importance of resilience, gratitude, and maintaining a strong foundation of faith in both personal and professional life.
Finding Purpose Through Godly Goals
For Paulo, true fulfillment comes from aligning his goals with God’s will. He has transitioned from setting personal ambitions to seeking divine guidance for his next steps.
"Instead of asking what I want to achieve, I now ask God what He wants me to do."
This shift in perspective has deepened his sense of purpose and brought peace to his life. Paulo’s journey reminds us that delegating our will to God can lead to greater blessings than we could imagine for ourselves.
Conclusion
Paulo Maccario’s journey is a testament to the power of faith, humility, and resilience. From leading teams in the military to navigating the complexities of the solar energy industry, his story inspires us to seek God’s guidance in all areas of life. As Paulo puts it, "Look for God, and you will find Him."
Written by Dhan Ababa
“Never turn down an opportunity God presents to you, and always seek Him in every decision.”
